At least three Kuki church leaders were killed and four others grievously injured in an armed ambush in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on Wednesday morning. According to community sources, the victims were part of a delegation of senior clergy traveling from Churachandpur to Kangpokpi to attend an inter-association ecclesiastical meeting. The group included leaders of the Thadou Baptist Association (TBA) and the United Baptist Council (UBC), led by Rev V Sitlhou, president of the TBA, along with Rev SM Haopu, Rev Hekai Simte, Rev Kaigoulun, Rev Paothang, Pastor Paogou and driver Goumang.
Attack Condemned as Premeditated Act
The Kuki Organisation for Human Rights Trust (KOHUR) condemned the attack, alleging involvement of NSCN-IM cadres in collusion with ZUF, and termed it a “premeditated act” targeting peace efforts. The outfit said the clergy had been engaged in reconciliation initiatives between Kuki and Tangkhul Naga communities, including recent consultations in Nagaland.
Background of the Conflict
Manipur has witnessed sporadic ethnic violence between Kuki and Naga groups, with peace initiatives often facing challenges. The targeted attack on religious leaders underscores the fragile security situation in the region. Authorities have launched an investigation, and security forces have been deployed to prevent further escalation.
